Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A delivery service (DS) computing device in communication with a user computing device associated with a user, a merchant computing device, one or more carrier devices, and a payment processing network, the DS computing device including a processor in communication with a memory, said processor programmed to: cause the user computing device to display a searchable interface configured to enable the user to search for one or more merchant locations, wherein the searchable interface is further configured to present at least one merchant location of the one or more merchant locations; receive, from the user computing device, a selection of a merchant location from the one or more merchant locations, wherein the selected merchant location is associated with the merchant computing device; submit, using an Application Programming Interface (API), a query to the merchant computing device of the selected merchant location; receive, through the API, item data of the selected merchant location from a merchant database associated with the merchant computing device; display the received item data through the searchable interface on the user computing device; receive, from the user computing device, via the searchable interface, cart data that identifies at least one selected item from the item data; cause display of a carrier availability map on the user computing device, the map comprising one or more icons representing one or more available carriers, the one or more icons displayed on the map at a location based on a Global Positioning System (GPS) identifier associated with the one or more available carriers and the selected merchant location, wherein each carrier of the one or more available carriers is associated with a respective carrier computing device of the one or more carrier devices; receive, from the user computing device, a selection of a carrier from the one or more available carriers; transmit the cart data to the respective carrier computing device of the selected carrier, the cart data instructing the selected carrier to purchase the at least one selected item identified by the cart data at the selected merchant location and subsequently deliver the at least one selected item to the user; process a payment transaction for the at least one selected item using payment information associated with the user by transferring purchase funds into a carrier account associated with a secure virtual account number, wherein the carrier account is configured to include purchase funds associated with a plurality of users; generate a security code associated with the secure virtual account number, wherein the security code is specifically linked only to the transferred purchase funds of the user; transmit the security code to the respective carrier computing device of the selected carrier; at a subsequent time, receive the security code from the respective carrier computing device; and in response to receiving the security code from the respective carrier computing device, validate the security code and selectively grant access to only the purchase funds associated with the user for purchasing the at least one selected item.
This invention relates to a delivery service system that facilitates on-demand item procurement and delivery from merchant locations using third-party carriers. The system addresses the problem of inefficient and fragmented processes for users to locate merchants, select items, and arrange delivery through independent carriers while ensuring secure payment handling. The system includes a delivery service computing device that communicates with user, merchant, and carrier devices, as well as a payment processing network. The system provides a searchable interface on the user device to locate merchant locations and view available items. After a user selects items, the system displays a carrier availability map showing nearby carriers based on GPS data. The user selects a carrier, and the system transmits the order details to the carrier's device, instructing them to purchase and deliver the items. Payment is processed securely by transferring funds into a carrier account linked to a virtual account number, which aggregates funds from multiple users. A unique security code is generated for each transaction, tied only to the user's funds. The carrier submits this code upon purchase, and the system validates it to authorize access to the specific funds for that transaction. This ensures secure, user-specific payment processing while enabling seamless carrier-based delivery.
2. The DS computing device of claim 1 , wherein said processor is further programmed to transmit, to the user computing device, availability data of the selected carrier, wherein the availability data includes an estimated time of delivery, a delivery service fee, and a performance rating associated with the selected carrier.
This invention relates to a delivery service (DS) computing device that facilitates the selection and communication of carrier availability data to a user computing device. The system addresses the problem of users needing real-time information about delivery options, including estimated delivery times, costs, and carrier reliability, to make informed decisions when selecting a delivery service. The DS computing device includes a processor programmed to select a carrier from a plurality of available carriers based on predefined criteria, such as cost, speed, or reliability. Once a carrier is selected, the processor transmits availability data to the user computing device. This data includes an estimated time of delivery, a delivery service fee, and a performance rating associated with the selected carrier. The performance rating may be derived from historical delivery success rates, customer reviews, or other metrics that indicate the carrier's reliability. By providing this comprehensive information, the system enables users to compare different carriers and choose the most suitable option for their needs. The invention improves the efficiency of delivery service selection by automating the retrieval and presentation of key carrier details, reducing the time and effort required for users to make decisions.
3. The DS computing device of claim 1 , wherein the cart data includes details of the at least one selected item, the details identifying at least one of an item image, an item description, an item price, an estimated item price, an item identifier, and an item locator information associated with the at least one selected item.
This invention relates to digital shopping (DS) computing devices that enhance the shopping experience by providing detailed cart data for selected items. The system addresses the problem of incomplete or disorganized item information during the shopping process, which can lead to user confusion, errors, or inefficiencies in checkout and inventory management. The DS computing device processes cart data that includes comprehensive details about selected items. These details may encompass an item image, item description, item price, estimated item price, item identifier, and item locator information. The item image allows users to visually confirm their selections, while the description and price provide essential purchasing details. An estimated price may be included for items with variable pricing, such as bulk discounts or dynamic pricing models. The item identifier ensures accurate tracking and retrieval, while locator information helps users or store systems pinpoint the item's physical or digital location. This structured data improves user experience by ensuring clarity and accuracy in item selection, reduces checkout errors, and supports efficient inventory and fulfillment processes. The system may be integrated into mobile apps, in-store kiosks, or online shopping platforms to streamline the shopping workflow.
4. The DS computing device of claim 1 , wherein said processor is further programmed to: receive, from the respective carrier computing device of the selected carrier, scanned information of the at least one selected item; and transmit, to the user computing device, a cart status update based on the scanned information.
This invention relates to a distributed system for managing item selection and checkout processes, particularly in environments like retail or logistics where multiple carriers handle items for a user. The system addresses inefficiencies in tracking selected items and ensuring accurate cart status updates during the checkout process. The system includes a distributed system (DS) computing device with a processor programmed to facilitate item selection and tracking. The processor receives scanned information of selected items from a carrier computing device associated with a selected carrier. This scanned information is used to generate and transmit a cart status update to a user computing device, ensuring the user is informed of the items being processed. The system may also handle multiple carriers, allowing users to select items from different carriers and receive consolidated updates. The invention improves upon prior systems by providing real-time tracking and status updates, reducing errors in item selection and checkout processes. It ensures transparency and accuracy in the item management workflow, benefiting both users and carriers. The system is particularly useful in scenarios where multiple carriers are involved, such as in large-scale retail or logistics operations.
5. The DS computing device of claim 1 , wherein said processor is further programmed to provide a communication channel between the selected carrier and the user, wherein the communication channel allows the user to make changes to the cart data in real time based on communications received through the communication channel.
This invention relates to a digital shopping (DS) computing device designed to enhance user interaction with a virtual shopping cart. The system addresses the problem of static cart management, where users cannot dynamically adjust their selections based on real-time interactions with carriers or service providers. The DS computing device includes a processor that facilitates a communication channel between the user and a selected carrier. This channel enables real-time modifications to the cart data, allowing users to update their selections, quantities, or other details instantaneously based on feedback or instructions received through the communication channel. The processor also manages the cart data, which may include items, services, or other selectable options, and ensures that changes are reflected immediately. The communication channel may be implemented via messaging, voice, or other interactive interfaces, providing seamless integration between the user and the carrier. This real-time adjustment capability improves user experience by enabling dynamic decision-making during the shopping process, reducing errors and enhancing flexibility. The system is particularly useful in scenarios where user preferences or external conditions change rapidly, requiring immediate updates to the cart.
6. The DS computing device of claim 1 , wherein said processor is further programmed to receive payment information from the user for the payment transaction and process the payment transaction for the selected item by: holding a delivery service fee; and releasing the delivery service fee into the carrier account upon receiving a confirmation of delivery.
This invention relates to a digital service (DS) computing device that facilitates payment processing for delivery services. The problem addressed is ensuring secure and efficient handling of delivery service fees between users, service providers, and carriers, particularly in verifying successful delivery before releasing funds. The DS computing device includes a processor programmed to manage payment transactions for items selected by users. The processor receives payment information from the user for the transaction and processes it by holding a delivery service fee associated with the item. The fee is withheld in a secure manner until the system receives confirmation that the item has been delivered. Upon receiving this confirmation, the processor releases the held delivery service fee into the carrier's account, ensuring that payment is only made after delivery is verified. This mechanism reduces disputes and ensures carriers are compensated only for completed deliveries, improving trust and efficiency in the delivery process. The system may also interact with other components, such as user interfaces and payment gateways, to facilitate seamless transactions.
7. A computer-implemented method for providing a delivery service, said method performed using a delivery service (DS) computing device in communication with a user computing device associated with a user, a merchant computing device, one or more carrier devices, and a payment processing network, the DS computing device including a processor in communication with a memory, said method comprising: cause the user computing device to display a searchable interface configured to enable the user to search for one or more merchant locations, wherein the searchable interface is further configured to present at least one merchant location of the one or more merchant locations; receiving, from the user computing device, a selection of a merchant location from the one or more merchant locations, wherein the selected merchant location is associated with the merchant computing device; submitting, using an Application Programming Interface (API), a query to the merchant computing device of the selected merchant location; receiving, through the API, item data of the selected merchant location from a merchant database associated with the merchant computing device; displaying the received item data through the searchable interface on the user computing device; receiving, from the user computing device, via the searchable interface, cart data that identifies at least one selected item from the item data; causing display of a carrier availability map on the user computing device, the map comprising one or more icons representing one or more available carriers, the one or more icons displayed on the map at a location based on a Global Positioning System (GPS) identifier associated with the one or more available carriers and the selected merchant location, wherein each carrier of the one or more available carriers is associated with a respective carrier computing device of the one or more carrier devices; receiving, from the user computing device, a selection of a carrier from the one or more available carriers; transmitting the cart data to the respective carrier computing device of the selected carrier, the cart data instructing the selected carrier to purchase the at least one selected item identified by the cart data at the selected merchant location and subsequently deliver the at least one selected item to the user; processing a payment transaction for the at least one selected item using payment information associated with the user by transferring purchase funds into a carrier account associated with a secure virtual account number, wherein the carrier account is configured to include purchase funds associated with a plurality of users; generating a security code associated with the secure virtual account number, wherein the security code is specifically linked only to the transferred purchase funds of the user; transmitting the security code to the respective carrier computing device of the selected carrier; at a subsequent time, receiving the security code from the respective carrier computing device; and in response to receiving the security code from the respective carrier computing device, validating the security code and selectively granting access to only the purchase funds for purchasing the at least one selected item.
This invention relates to a computer-implemented delivery service system that facilitates on-demand item purchases and delivery from merchant locations. The system addresses the problem of coordinating secure transactions between users, merchants, and carriers in a streamlined manner. A delivery service computing device communicates with user, merchant, and carrier devices, as well as a payment processing network. The system provides a searchable interface on the user device to locate merchant locations and browse available items. After a user selects items, the system displays a carrier availability map showing nearby carriers based on GPS data. The user selects a carrier, and the system transmits the order details to the carrier's device. Payment is processed by transferring funds into a secure virtual account linked to the carrier, with a unique security code generated for the transaction. The carrier uses this code to access the funds when purchasing the items. The system validates the code before granting access to the funds, ensuring secure and controlled transactions. This approach simplifies the process of delegating purchases and deliveries while maintaining financial security.
8. The computer-implemented method of claim 7 further comprising transmitting, to the user computing device, availability data of the selected carrier, wherein the availability data includes an estimated time of delivery, a delivery service fee, and a performance rating associated with the selected carrier.
The invention relates to a computer-implemented system for managing carrier selection and delivery logistics in a logistics or e-commerce platform. The system processes user requests to select a shipping carrier for a package, then provides real-time availability data to the user's computing device. This data includes an estimated time of delivery, which specifies when the package is expected to arrive at its destination. It also includes a delivery service fee, which outlines the cost associated with the selected carrier's service. Additionally, the system provides a performance rating for the carrier, which likely reflects historical reliability, delivery speed, or customer satisfaction metrics. This information enables users to make informed decisions when choosing a carrier based on cost, speed, and reliability. The system integrates with user computing devices to deliver this data dynamically, ensuring transparency and efficiency in the carrier selection process.
9. The computer-implemented method of claim 7 , wherein the cart data includes details of the at least one selected item, the details identifying at least one of an item image, an item description, an item price, an estimated item price, an item identifier, and an item locator information associated with the at least one selected item.
This invention relates to a computer-implemented method for managing cart data in an e-commerce or retail system. The method addresses the challenge of efficiently storing and retrieving detailed information about selected items in a user's shopping cart. The cart data includes comprehensive details about each selected item, such as an item image, item description, item price, estimated item price, item identifier, and item locator information. These details enable users and systems to accurately track and manage items in the cart, ensuring seamless checkout and inventory management. The method ensures that all relevant item attributes are captured and stored, allowing for dynamic updates and real-time access to cart contents. This enhances user experience by providing clear, up-to-date information about selected items, including pricing and availability, while supporting backend processes like order fulfillment and inventory tracking. The solution improves the reliability and functionality of digital shopping carts by standardizing the way item data is structured and retrieved.
10. The computer-implemented method of claim 7 further comprising: receiving, from the respective carrier computing device of the selected carrier, scanned information of the at least one selected item; and transmitting, to the user computing device, a cart status update based on the scanned information.
This invention relates to a computer-implemented method for managing item selection and tracking in a retail or logistics environment. The method addresses the problem of efficiently capturing and updating item selections in real-time, particularly in scenarios where multiple carriers or users are involved in picking or processing items. The system includes a central server that communicates with user computing devices and carrier computing devices to facilitate item selection and tracking. The method involves selecting at least one item from a list of available items, where the selection is made via a user computing device. The selected item is then assigned to a carrier, and the carrier's computing device receives the assignment. The carrier scans the selected item, and the scanned information is transmitted back to the central server. The server processes this scanned data and generates a cart status update, which is then sent to the user's computing device. This update informs the user of the current status of their selected items, such as whether they have been picked, scanned, or are ready for the next step in the process. The method ensures real-time synchronization between the user and carrier systems, reducing errors and improving efficiency in item tracking and fulfillment. The system is particularly useful in environments like warehouses, retail stores, or delivery services where multiple parties are involved in item handling.
11. The computer-implemented method of claim 7 further comprising providing a communication channel between the selected carrier and the user, wherein the communication channel allows the user to make changes to the cart data based on communications received through the communication channel.
This invention relates to a computer-implemented method for managing carrier selection and cart data in a logistics or e-commerce system. The problem addressed is the need for dynamic interaction between users and carriers during the shipping process, particularly when adjustments to cart data (such as order details, delivery preferences, or carrier options) are required after initial selection. The method involves selecting a carrier from a plurality of available carriers based on predefined criteria, such as cost, delivery time, or service quality. Once a carrier is selected, a dedicated communication channel is established between the carrier and the user. This channel enables real-time or near-real-time communication, allowing the user to modify cart data in response to messages or updates received from the carrier. For example, if the carrier identifies an issue with delivery constraints, the user can adjust the cart data (e.g., changing delivery dates, selecting alternative items, or choosing a different carrier) through this channel. The communication channel may include messaging interfaces, notifications, or interactive tools that facilitate seamless updates to the cart data without requiring manual intervention from a third party. This approach improves flexibility and efficiency in logistics and e-commerce by enabling direct, dynamic adjustments to order details based on carrier feedback, reducing delays and improving customer satisfaction.
12. The computer-implemented method of claim 7 further comprising receiving payment information from the user for the payment transaction and processing the payment transaction for the at least one selected item by: holding a delivery service fee; and releasing the delivery service fee into the carrier account upon receiving a confirmation of delivery.
This invention relates to a computer-implemented payment processing system for facilitating transactions involving delivery services. The system addresses the challenge of ensuring secure and efficient payment handling between users, merchants, and delivery carriers, particularly in scenarios where delivery service fees must be managed separately from the transaction amount. The method involves processing a payment transaction for at least one selected item by first receiving payment information from the user. The system then holds a delivery service fee associated with the transaction, preventing immediate release to the carrier. Upon receiving confirmation that the item has been successfully delivered, the system releases the held delivery service fee into the carrier's account. This ensures that the carrier is only compensated after delivery is confirmed, reducing disputes and ensuring proper service fulfillment. The system may also include steps for generating a payment request, validating the request, and processing the transaction through a payment processor. Additionally, it may involve communicating with a delivery service platform to verify delivery status and trigger the fee release. The method ensures secure, conditional payment processing for delivery services, improving trust and efficiency in transactions.
13. A non-transitory computer-readable storage media having computer-executable instructions embodied thereon, wherein when executed by a delivery service (DS) computing device in communication with a user computing device associated with a user, a merchant computing device, one or more carrier devices, and a payment processing network, the DS computing device including at least one processor coupled to a memory, the computer-executable instructions cause the DS computing device to: cause the user computing device to display a searchable interface configured to enable the user to search for one or more merchant locations, wherein the searchable interface is further configured to present at least one merchant location of the one or more merchant locations; receive, from the user computing device, a selection of a merchant location from the one or more merchant locations, wherein the selected merchant location is associated with the merchant computing device; submit, using an Application Programming Interface (API), a query to the merchant computing device of the selected merchant location; receive, through the API, item data of the selected merchant location from a merchant database associated with the merchant computing device; cause to display the received item data through the searchable interface on the user computing device; receive, from the user computing device, via the searchable interface, cart data that identifies at least one selected item from the item data; cause display of a carrier availability map on the user computing device, the map comprising one or more icons representing one or more available carriers, the one or more icons displayed on the map at a location based on a Global Positioning System (GPS) identifier associated with the one or more available carriers and the selected merchant location, wherein each carrier of the one or more available carriers is associated with a respective carrier computing device of the one or more carrier devices; receive, from the user computing device, a selection of a carrier from the one or more available carriers; transmit the cart data to the respective carrier computing device of the selected carrier, the cart data instructing the selected carrier to purchase the at least one selected item identified by the cart data at the selected merchant location and subsequently deliver the at least one selected item to the user; process a payment transaction for the at least one selected item using payment information associated with the user by transferring purchase funds into a carrier account associated with a secure virtual account number, wherein the carrier account is configured to include purchase funds associated with a plurality of users; generate a security code associated with the secure virtual account number, wherein the security code is specifically linked only to the transferred purchase funds of the user; transmit the security code to the respective carrier computing device of the selected carrier; at a subsequent time, receive the security code from the respective carrier computing device; and in response to receiving the security code from the respective carrier computing device, validate the security code and selectively grant access to only the to purchase funds for purchasing the at least one selected item.
This invention relates to a delivery service system that facilitates on-demand item procurement and delivery from merchant locations. The system addresses the problem of users needing to physically visit stores to purchase items, by enabling remote selection and delivery through a centralized platform. The system includes a delivery service computing device that communicates with user, merchant, and carrier devices, as well as a payment processing network. The system provides a searchable interface on the user device to locate merchant locations and view available items. After selecting items, the system displays a carrier availability map showing nearby carriers with GPS-based locations. Users select a carrier, and the system securely processes payment by transferring funds to a carrier account linked to a virtual account number. A unique security code is generated and transmitted to the carrier, ensuring only authorized access to the user's funds for the purchase. The carrier retrieves the items and delivers them to the user, with the system validating the security code to confirm transaction integrity. The system streamlines remote purchasing and delivery while maintaining secure payment processing.
14. The computer-readable storage media of claim 13 , wherein the computer-executable instructions further cause the DS computing device to transmit, to the user computing device, availability data of the selected carrier, wherein the availability data includes an estimated time of delivery, a delivery service fee, and a performance rating associated with the selected carrier.
This invention relates to a system for selecting and transmitting carrier availability data in a delivery service network. The problem addressed is the lack of real-time, comprehensive carrier information for users when arranging deliveries, which can lead to inefficiencies and poor service experiences. The system involves a delivery service (DS) computing device that receives a delivery request from a user computing device. The request includes details such as the package dimensions, weight, pickup location, and destination. The DS computing device then identifies multiple carriers capable of fulfilling the request based on the package specifications and delivery route. Each carrier is evaluated for availability, cost, and performance metrics. The system selects a carrier from the identified options and transmits availability data to the user computing device. This data includes an estimated time of delivery, a delivery service fee, and a performance rating for the selected carrier. The performance rating is derived from historical data, such as on-time delivery rates and customer feedback. The user can then review this information to make an informed decision about the delivery service. The system ensures users receive transparent, up-to-date carrier details, improving decision-making and service reliability. The performance rating helps users assess carrier reliability, while the fee and estimated time provide cost and timing clarity. This approach enhances the overall delivery experience by providing comprehensive carrier information in real time.
15. The computer-readable storage media of claim 13 , wherein the computer-executable instructions further cause the DS computing device to receive payment information from the user for the payment transaction and process the payment transaction for the at least one selected item by: holding a delivery service fee; and transferring the delivery service fee into the carrier account upon receiving a confirmation of delivery.
This invention relates to a payment processing system for delivery services, specifically addressing the handling of delivery service fees in payment transactions. The system involves a computing device that processes payments for items selected by a user, including the collection and management of delivery service fees. When a user initiates a payment transaction for one or more selected items, the system receives payment information and processes the transaction by holding a delivery service fee. This fee is then transferred into a carrier account only after the system receives confirmation that the delivery has been successfully completed. The system ensures that delivery service fees are securely managed and only disbursed upon verification of delivery, reducing the risk of fraud or unauthorized payments. The invention improves the reliability and transparency of fee handling in delivery transactions by automating the fee transfer process based on delivery confirmation. This approach benefits both users and carriers by ensuring fees are only paid for completed deliveries, enhancing trust in the payment system.
Unknown
January 12, 2021
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